PhD conferral Mr Sander van Hoeve, MSc.

“Reliability and clinical application of multi-segment foot models in patients after foot and ankle trauma”

Keywords: foot and ankle fracture, evaluation, Oxford Foot Model, diagnosis

Currently, patients who have suffered foot and ankle fractures are being evaluated by means of questionnaires, physical examination and X-rays. This dissertation examines foot and ankle mobility during gait in patients with different types of foot and ankle trauma based on an objective and reliable foot model (i.e. the Oxford Foot Model). Compared to healthy volunteers, all groups showed a lower walking speed and a reduced foot and ankle mobility. The reduced foot and ankle mobility was associated with the level of patient satisfaction reported in the questionnaires and the extent of fracture healing. This dissertation shows that this foot model is a promising diagnostic tool.